Having been a long-time woodworker, I bought my first lathe 30 years ago for the sole purpose of making a segmented bowl. There was no interest in segmenting and nowhere to turn for help. I decided to change that.
Becoming a self-taught programmer and four software programs later, I have helped to grow the segmenting community to the point that nearly 50% of woodturners are creating segmented vessels and segmented art in ways that I never dreamed possible. I call that a good start and am anxious to use technology to help drive it to an even higher level.
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Beginners Guide to Multi-Generation Laminations - Multi-Generation Laminations allow you to create stunning feature rings that appear complex — but are built from a simple, repeatable process.
In this session, we’ll start from the very beginning:
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What “multi-generation” actually means
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Understanding terminology, techniques, jigs and construction aids
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How to use software to create designs
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How second and third generations and discs are created
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The amazing chevron board and what it can yield
You’ll leave understanding the process, not just the pattern — and with the confidence to design and build your own laminated feature rings.
Perfect for turners who are new to segmented work or ready to move beyond basic rings.
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Advanced topics in Multi-Generation Laminations - Once you understand the MGL basics, the real fun begins.
This session explores:
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Controlling pattern density and symmetry
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Managing glue lines and kerf effects
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Southwest designs. Miniature designs.
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Avoiding the subtle mistakes that ruin complex laminations
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MGL to bring out the advanced woodworker in you
We’ll analyze advanced examples and break down how they were designed so you can replicate — or improve — them.
Designed for turners who already understand segmentation fundamentals and want to push their design vocabulary much further.
- Design Software for Novice Sgementer - Segmented design software can feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be.
This rotation introduces how software simplifies segmented turning by:
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Automatically calculating segment angles
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Generating accurate cut lists
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Visualizing your bowl before glue-up
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Preventing costly layout errors
We’ll walk step-by-step through designing different segmented bowls from scratch. We'll build closed and open segment bowls, cremation urns, staves and compound segments. No prior software experience required.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I be using design software?” — this is your starting point.
- Advanced Topics in Segmenting Software - Segmented turning isn’t limited to bowls.
In this advanced session, we explore how software can be used to design:
Using Woodturner PRO, we’ll demonstrate how geometry, segment count, and ring orientation combine to create sculptural forms that would be nearly impossible to calculate by hand.
This is not a beginner session. It’s about stretching what segmented turning can become.
If you’re ready to move from vessels to sculpture, this rotation will open new doors.